Milloo's Mind : The Story of Maryam Faruqi, Trailblazer for Women's Education

Perfect for fans of Malala’s Magic Pencil and She Persisted! From the author of Lailah’s Lunchbox comes a powerful picture book biography about Maryam Faruqi, the founder of the Happy Home Schools, which provided education to thousands of girls across India and Pakistan at a time when girls weren't encouraged to go to school. Maryam was a trailblazer for women’s education and the author is her granddaughter, creating a personal, inspiring tale.

Enough is enough!

Milloo lives in a time when school is considered unnecessary for girls. But to Milloo, education is not a choice; it is essential. When Milloo reads, her thoughts dance and her mind breathes. Milloo courageously dreams of becoming a teacher, but in fifth grade her parents tell her she has had enough school. Milloo is heartbroken but finds a way to achieve her educational goals, graduating high school and college with honors. When she’s married, Milloo’s husband tells her to stay home, but she does not let that stop her. She decides to open a school in her house and later expands her schools to India and Pakistan, fulfilling her dreams and those of so many young girls.

Reem Faruqi is the award-winning author of Unsettled, Golden Girl, and the forthcoming Anisa’s International Day. She is also the author of the ALA Notable picture books Lailah’s Lunchbox and Amira’s Picture Day as well as Let Me Show You the Way. Of Pakistani descent, Reem immigrated to Peachtree City, GA, in the United States from the United Arab Emirates when she was thirteen years old. Reem is also a teacher and photographer who loves to doodle. She lives in Atlanta with her husband and three daughters. 

Hoda Hadadi is a multi-award-winning illustrator with some sixty books to her name. Hoda is also a poet and author. Her intricate artwork, created by hand, is recognized worldwide. Her awards include the Best Picture Book, the International Book Award 2018, and the gold medal for Best Illustrator at the 2017 Literary Classics Awards for Drummer Girl. Her list of accolades speaks to her immense creativity.